OK, that makes sense then. Just going on what you said earlier left me a bit confused... but if you're planning major engine mods, then I might not put the $$ into the OEM carbs. FWIW, seems those running 1216's with cams & headwork are running bigger carbs, usually 38's or 40's. In fact, Fast Larry is running 38's on an 1157 motor with 10.5 pistons, headwork & hotter cams.
Sounds like we're in agreement that for a stock motor, a jet kit would be the better way to go.